LCG: Fasting Has Cardiovascular Benefits

A couple of weeks ago, I posted an item about fasting (see Fasting). In yesterday’s announcements at services, LCG reported the following:

Fasting Reduces Risk of Heart Disease.

In a study of more than 4,500 Mormons in Utah, researchers examined behaviors that were associated with lower risk of coronary artery disease—heart disease. After accounting for other factors (smoking, alcohol use, coffee and tea ingestion), researchers discovered that those who fasted routinely (without food or drink) were at lower risk for heart disease than those who did not fast. Fasting was also associated with lower diabetes risk (The American Journal of Cardiology, October 1, 2008). In the Old Testament, God direct His people to “afflict their soul” or fast as a tool for building humility and drawing closer to Him (see Leviticus 23:27; Esther 4:16; Psalm 35:13, 109:24; Isaiah 58:3-6). We see this behavior continued in the New Testament (Acts 27:9). Although many claim that God’s commands in the Old Testament were “nailed to the cross,” honest students of the Scriptures realize that God’s principles are consistent throughout the entire Bible (2 Timothy 3:16). Fasting is a tool that God intended to be used for spiritual purposes. However, there are also health benefits built into the practice of fasting—that modern research verifies! God said that those who keep His commandments and statutes would not be afflicted with diseases common among the Egyptians (Exodus 15:26). The historical record indicates that heart disease and diabetes were common diseases, especially among aristocratic Egyptians. While fasting is not the “magic bullet” for health, God has built in physical health benefits for those who routinely use this spiritual tool! (World Ahead Weekly Update. Living Church of God, June 2, 2011)

I have always suspected that fasting must reduce the risk of heart disease and it is nice that science is now coming to the same conclusion. Fasting is one of many tools that are available for Christians. Prayer, biblical meditation, and Bible study are some others.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Spiritual Benefits of Fasting Jesus said, “But by Prayer and Fasting” and this article by Dr. Meredith mentions prayer and focuses on fasting and provides his physical and spiritual fasting tips.
The Bible: Fact or Fiction? This is a booklet written by Douglas Winnail that answers if the Bible is just a collection of myths and legends or the inspired word of God.
Read the Bible Christians should read and study the Bible. This article gives some rationale for regular bible reading.
What is the Appropriate Form of Biblical Interpretation? Should the Bible be literally understood? What do the writings of the Bible, Origen, Herbert W. Armstrong, and Augustine show?
Were the Ten Commandments Nailed to the Cross? Some have said so. This article provides some biblical quotes to answer this important question.
There are Many COGs: Why Support the Living Church of God? This is an article for those who wish to more easily sort out the different COGs. It really should be a MUST READ for current and former WCG/GCI members or any interested in supporting the faithful church. It also explains a lot of what the COGs are all about.